What is the Difference Between Nanoparticles and Nanoclusters?

The main difference between nanoparticles and nanoclusters lies in their size, composition, and properties. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

• Size: Nanoparticles have dimensions between 1 and 100 nm (1.0 µm), while nanoclusters have at least one dimension between 1 and 10 nm.
• Composition: Nanoparticles are single particles of matter, whereas nanoclusters are composed of up to 100 atoms, and sometimes even up to 1000 or more atoms, which are bonded together. Nanoclusters may also be referred to as molecular nanoparticles.
• Surface Area to Volume Ratio: Nanoparticles have a large surface area to volume ratio, which influences their properties and Reactivity.
• Stability: Nanoclusters are often considered kinetically stable intermediates that form during the synthesis of larger nanoparticles.
• Properties: Nanoclusters can exhibit unique electronic, optical, and chemical properties compared to their larger counterparts, such as nanoparticles.

In summary, nanoparticles are single particles with dimensions between 1 and 100 nm, while nanoclusters are composed of up to 1000 atoms and have dimensions between 1 and 10 nm. Nanoclusters can be considered as a bridging link between atoms and nanoparticles, exhibiting unique properties that differ from those of individual atoms and nanoparticles.

Comparative Table: Nanoparticles vs Nanoclusters

Here is a table comparing the differences between nanoparticles and nanoclusters:

In summary, nanoparticles are individual particles with dimensions between 1 to 100 nanometers, while nanoclusters are collections of smaller atoms or molecules, typically existing on the 0-2 nanometer scale. Nanoparticles have a larger surface area to volume ratio, which affects their stability and application, whereas nanoclusters have a lower surface area to volume ratio due to their smaller size.